A coordinated system of special education is more likely to produce positive outcomes for students with disabilities. This training is based upon six conceptual bedrocks of a systems-thinking approach to leading and managing special education. This training will address 2 of the bedrocks. The six bedrocks are: Program Landscape in which participants will analyze how they deliver services; Compliance with an emphasis on timely evaluations; Academic Achievement to ensure students with disabilities are learning; Non-Academic Barriers to ensure that behavioral issues are addressed; Transitions and Family engagement to ensure that students easily transition from early intervention to school-age as well as secondary transition to adulthood; and finally strategies for Family Engagement. The bedrocks are also directly linked to high leverage practices which are connected to the state performance plan federal indicators.

The training will speak from a leadership perspective on strong special education systems with the final day solidifying leadership skills as being integral to the overall picture of special education administration.

Objectives

Participants will:

List the 6 conceptual bedrocks that support strong special education systems grounded in the tenets of IDEA

Identify research based instructional and behavioral strategies for creating positive conditions for learning.

Identify effective practices that enhance positive family and community relationships.

Individuals attending this course must arrive on time and stay the duration of the course in order to receive Act 48 Professional Education hours. Requests for exceptions are to be brought to the attention of the individual´s Superintendent or IU Director prior to the course.

Please use the comments for discussion and to contribute your reviews, perspective and thoughts. Your colleagues and other visitors will appreciate it! If you need help, please contact us. Requests for help will not be answered in comments.

Reasonable efforts will be made to accommodate individuals who have special needs as addressed by the Americans with Disabilities Act and who need assistance at this training. Contact: Karen Weaver, at 800-446-5607, or kweaver@pattan.net.